The Effect of 12 Weeks High Intensity Interval Training and Resistance Training on Liver Fat, Liver Enzymes and Insulin Resistance in Men with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is the most prevalent liver disease in the world. Life style modification particularly physical activity is the most important treatment strategy. The purpose of the present study was to examine effect of resistance training and high intensity interval training on fatty liver biochemical indices, insulin resistance and liver fat.
Subjects and A total 22 with nonalcoholic fatty liver men enrolled and randomized to resistance training or high intensity interval training. The resistance training group performed six multi joint exercises at 65-70 % 1RM. Interval training group performed 6-12 × 60 s intervals at 80-85 % HRmax, each interval separated with 2 min active rest. Both training groups performed training three times per week. The plasma concentration of liver amino transferase enzymes, lipid profile, insulin resistance index and liver fat measured pre- and 72-h after the last training session. The paired sample T test and independent sample T test used for analysis of changes within group and between group differences, respectively.
The plasma ALT concentration significantly decreased in resistance (P= 0.046) and interval (P= 0.011) training groups. The fasting insulin and insulin resistance index in both groups (P≤ 0.001). The liver fat decreased in both groups. The lipid profile significantly improved in both groups. No significant differences observed between groups in any parameter.
It seems that both resistance and interval training are appropriate training strategy for non-alcoholic fatty liver patent and can improve plasma ALT, lipid profile, insulin resistance and liver fat.